Breast self-exam

Breast self-exam (BSE) is a method used by individuals to check their own breasts for changes or abnormalities. It is a screening technique that can be performed at home to detect early breast cancer.

Overview

A breast self-exam involves the individual palpating their breasts to feel for lumps or changes in size, shape, or texture. This can be done in a variety of positions, such as standing in front of a mirror, lying down, or while in the shower. The individual should also visually inspect their breasts for changes in skin color, nipple discharge, or changes in the nipple's position.

Importance

Breast self-exams are an important part of breast health. While they are not a substitute for mammography or clinical breast exams performed by a healthcare professional, they can help individuals become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts. This familiarity can make it easier to notice any changes that may occur.

Procedure

The procedure for a breast self-exam can be broken down into three parts: visual inspection, palpation while standing or sitting, and palpation while lying down.

During the visual inspection, the individual should look for changes in breast size, shape, or symmetry. They should also look for changes in the skin, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness, and changes in the nipples, such as inversion or discharge.

During palpation, the individual should use the pads of their fingers to feel their breasts for lumps or thickening. They should cover the entire breast, from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen and from the armpit to the cleavage.

Limitations

While breast self-exams can be a useful tool in detecting breast cancer early, they have limitations. Not all lumps or changes detected during a self-exam are cancerous, and not all cancers can be detected through self-examination. Therefore, regular clinical exams and mammograms are also important for early detection of breast cancer.

See also

• Breast cancer
• Mammography
• Clinical breast exam